Former Utah first lady Colleen Monson Bangerter dies at 76

SALT LAKE CITY — Former Utah first lady Colleen Monson Bangerter passed away at her home on Friday night from Alzheimer’s disease. She was 76 years old.

She was married to Utah Gov. Norman H. Bangerter and was Utah’s first lady from 1985 to 1993.

She was active in her church and community and served in many capacities. As first lady of Utah, she focused on women’s issues and substance abuse issues for children.

She served with her husband from 1996 to 1999 as they presided over the Johannesburg South Africa Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

She was a truly remarkable first lady and wonderful human being, Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch said in a written statement.

"She was always kind to all she met and made people feel special with her bright smile and warm personality," Hatch said.

He also added that she worked hard to make a difference on issues affecting Utah's children and families.

The Bangerters raised six children and one foster son. They now have 30 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, Aug. 4 at 1 p.m. at the South Jordan Utah Parkway Stake Center at 9894 S. 2700 West. There will be a viewing before the funeral service from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the evening before from 6 to 8 p.m. at the stake center.